5 Must-Do Activities In Ivory Coast For A Travel Bucket List

By Jenna Jolie | Update on: Dec 06, 2024

Discover the best of the Ivory Coast with the top things to do in Ivory Coast, from exploring historical sites to enjoying the country’s natural beauty and wildlife. Whether you're exploring vibrant cities, relaxing on scenic beaches, or immersing yourself in local traditions, Côte d'Ivoire has something for every traveler.

Table of Contents

Check Out The List Of The Top 5 Things In Ivory Coast For Travelers
Some Other Recommended Must-Do Things in Ivory Coast
- Shopping and Souvenirs
- Nightlife in Abidjan
Essential Things To Prepare For Your Ivory Coast Trip

Check Out The List Of The Top 5 Things In Ivory Coast For Travelers

1. Immersing in the modern life in Treichville, Abidjan

Treichville is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in the city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast. Known for its lively markets and street vendors, Treichville is a must-visit place in Ivory Coast for those looking to experience the local culture and cuisine. In Treichville, you can explore various markets, including the Marché de Treichville, where fresh produce, traditional handicrafts, and souvenirs are sold. If you think going to markets is tedious, there are fancy restaurants and clubs to visit. Treichville is the hub for nightlife in Abidjan, where you can find several bars and other entertainment venues.

2. Chilling out on Bassam beach

Grand Bassam is a UNESCO World Heritage site owing to the richness of its crumbling colonial architecture and urban planning. A trip to this stretch of coastline won't let you down if you are finding a place to unwind and get rid of all the burdens of your daily life. Enjoy the sunshine hitting your skin at Grand Bassam Beach and watching the sky transform with colors as the sun begins to set are the most unforgettable experiences here.

Additionally, Bassam Beach offers many facilities, including luxurious hotels and fine restaurants serving both local and Western dishes. There are plenty of other places to explore nearby, such as the Grand Bassam Lighthouse, the National Costume Museum, and the Palais de Justice. For a truly authentic Ivory Coast cultural experience, be sure to visit!

Chilling out on Bassam beach is one of the top things to do in Ivory Coast

Chilling out on Bassam beach is one of the top things to do in Ivory Coast

3. Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

If you are fortunate enough to visit Yamoussoukro, the Ivory Coast's capital, you should not miss visiting the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. This place is known as the largest Catholic religious building in the world, drawing large numbers of visitors worldwide yearly.

The Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, an architectural masterpiece in Ivory Coast, was completed in 1989 and modeled after the Vatican's St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. The church's interior is embellished with stunning stained glass windows and artwork, while the outside is composed of marble. The basilica is a striking structure with a dome that rises more than 500 feet and the number of seats of over 18,000 people. When touring the basilica, you can marvel at the magnificence of the architecture and design and learn about the significance of this famous site in the Ivory Coast.

Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

Wandering around the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace

4. Admiring the futuristic architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral

In the city of Abidjan, Ivory Coast, there is a Roman Catholic cathedral called Saint Paul's Cathedral. It was constructed in 1985 and has been a top-rated attraction in Abidjan for its unique design. The first President of Ivory Coast, Félix Houphout-Boigny, commissioned Italian architect Aldo Spirito to create the cathedral as the artistic driving force behind his ambitious proposal to construct a top-notch church.

The architecture of the Church of St. Paul is a blend of uniqueness and modernity, though it is built to meet the specific aspirations of the ethnic people of Ivory Coast. Visitors are in awe of the unusual, futuristic building's size and shape, as well as its singular design. The walls surrounding the tower were filled with vivid colors and carved biblical scenes. In addition to having a Biblical theme, the cathedral's artwork places a particular emphasis on the Ivorian people's Christian religion. Without a doubt, visiting St. Paul's Cathedral is among the best things to do in Ivory Coast, which brings you a sense of satisfaction in admiring its creative architectural design.

5. Seeing Animals in Assagny National Park

Driving about 100 kilometers from Abidjan, you can reach Azagny National Park. The 19,400-hectare park in the south of Ivory Coast was established in 1981 and is home to many unique animals and plant species. The vegetation in Azagny National Park is primarily swampy savannah because it is about 60% submerged in water. Elephants, bush pigs, buffaloes, monkeys (Chimpanzee Islands), several bird species, and many tree types can all be found in the national park. Boat rides are permitted on the navigable Azagny Canal, which is also equipped with Miradors that provide beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

If visitors seeking fun things to do in Ivory Coast, don't miss this attraction.

Seeing animals in Assagny National Park, Ivory Coast

Seeing animals in Assagny National Park, Ivory Coast

Some Other Recommended Must-Do Things in Ivory Coast

Shopping and Souvenirs

If you want to buy something in Ivory Coast for souvenirs, don't miss to visit Marché de Treichville - A lively marketplace offering a wide variety of handmade crafts and unique souvenirs. Visitors can experience the Ivory Coast's traditional artistry, and discover exquisite wood carvings, vibrant textiles, and beautifully crafted jewelry.

Nightlife in Abidjan

Abidjan is renowned for its energetic and diverse nightlife scene. Let's enjoy dynamic nightclubs and bars. Travelers who like live music and dance also can immerse themselves in local music styles such as zouglou and koukou, accompanied by captivating dance performances.

Essential Things To Prepare For Your Ivory Coast Trip

To ensure your trip to Ivory Coast is perfect, you should make a list of essential things to prepare. You can refer to our suggestion on a pre-trip checklist to make sure everything gets done the day before you travel.

Visa and passport are the most important documents for a trip abroad: You'll need a valid passport and a visa to enter Ivory Coast. Regarding your passport, please make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay. For the visa, An Ivory Coast visa can be obtained easily online thanks to the introduction of the electronic visa system. You should check visa requirements in advance to know what you need to prepare to apply for an Ivory Coast e visa.
Travel Insurance: It's always a good idea to have travel insurance, especially when traveling to a foreign country. Make sure your insurance policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and any other unforeseen events. This Travel insurance is available at Ivory Coast Immigration Services, which you can purchase in a matter of minutes with just a click.
Currency: The official currency in Ivory Coast is the West African CFA franc. It's a good idea to exchange some money before you leave or withdraw cash from an ATM when you arrive.
Language: French is the official language of the Ivory Coast. While some locals may speak English, it's best to learn some basic French phrases to communicate with them if needed.
Safety: Ivory Coast is generally a safe country to visit, but it's always important to take precautions, especially when traveling alone. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep your valuables out of sight.
Local Customs: Ivory Coast has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection.

Essential things to prepare for an Ivory Coast trip

Essential things to prepare for an Ivory Coast trip

Ivory Coast is an exciting destination with plenty to do and numerous experiences to explore. Whether you're lounging on Grand Bassam's beaches, exploring Abidjan's vibrant markets, or discovering one of the largest churches in the world, Ivory Coast has something to offer. So, pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful country. Ivory Coast Immigration Services will accompany you on your journey!

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